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How and why calculate pressure?

What is pressure? How is it calculated? How can it be regulated? What is it used for? If you're asking yourself all these very pertinent questions, then this article is for you! The pressure of a liquid or fluid is the intensity of the force it exerts per unit area. In this article, we'll look at how to calculate pressure.

WHAT IS PRESSURE?

Pressure is a physical force that results in an exchange of momentum in a thermodynamic system, particularly within a solid or a fluid. In the case of hydraulic pressure, we are talking about an external pressure exerted on one part of a confined fluid which is transmitted to all the other parts, without any loss. The pressure is in fact the intensity of the force exerted, in our case, by the fluid, per unit area. This intensity is expressed in pascals (Pa).

What is it used for?

The use of fluids under pressure and the laws of liquids will generate mechanical work in a system. In this respect, pressure plays a vital role. It is essential for a circuit to work properly. It is important to distinguish between the concepts of force and pressure, which are often confused:

  • Force: this is a phenomenon that is exerted on a body and can set it in motion or deform it. For example, by pushing, lifting, pulling, etc. The intensity of the force is expressed in Newtons.
  • Pressure: the difference here is very subtle and lies in the surface on which the force is exerted. Pressure, as already mentioned, is expressed in pascals (Pa), and corresponds to the force divided by the surface area on which it is exerted. For example, a pressure of one Pascal is a force of one Newton exerted on one square metre.

How do you calculate pressure?

As we have already mentioned, pressure generates power. So it's important to regulate it to avoid damage. To do this, it is essential to know how to calculate the pressure required by a system, in order to establish whether it is too high or too low. So how do you go about calculating the pressure in a system?

As we explained earlier in this article, pressure (P) is expressed in pascals (Pa) and is defined as the force (F) applied to a unit area (S). It is calculated using the following basic formula: P = F/S, i.e. pressure is equal to the force applied in Newtons, divided by the surface area (the result of which is expressed in Pascals). So if a force of one Newton is exerted on a surface area of one square metre, then the pressure exerted will be one Pascal.

Among other things, measuring pressure enables it to be regulated. This is essential, especially in a fluid circuit (such as a hydraulic system), as it prevents excessive pressure from damaging the system. So it's important to keep a very close eye on this, to minimise risks and ensure that the whole system works properly.

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